ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds

Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerful medications following unreliable video call tests at private clinics according to a BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation occurred following tips received. Dozens of patients and whistleblowers were interviewed.

Many people are forced to pay for private assessments because of the NHS waiting list. But does it actually work?

What is the reason I need an individual diagnosis?

If you believe that you or someone you know has ADHD It is essential to find a specialist who can evaluate your condition and provide the appropriate treatment. Although many people opt to use the NHS but a private diagnosis can often be more efficient and can save you both time and money in the long run.

There are concerns that the NHS is unable to cope with the demands of current services for ADHD assessments. Patients are waiting for weeks or months to get an appointment. This can be very distressing for those who are affected. Many people think that the NHS assessment services aren't as good as they could be.

In the face of these issues it's not a surprise that more adults are opting to undergo an assessment by a private doctor. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns about the quality of care offered by some private clinics. The undercover show revealed that some clinics had rushed through tests over the phone and told patients they were ADHD even though they weren't.

A private assessment typically begins with a series screening questionnaires that you will be asked to complete and send to the doctor. The screenings are standardised and designed to determine if you show symptoms of ADHD. The results of these tests help the doctor determine if you are a candidate for an appointment to diagnose.

The doctor will then review your medical background and family history, as well as the impact of ADHD symptoms on your daily life. They will also carry out physical and cognitive test. You will be diagnosed with ADHD based on your situation and given a treatment plan.

After you are diagnosed with ADHD, your clinician will submit documents to your GP for a shared care agreement. This will allow you to continue receiving NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription cost) while also seeing your private clinician for ongoing appointments and CBT therapy if needed.

What happens if I do not get an appointment?

A clear diagnosis and the right treatment can make a huge difference in the case of ADHD. The NHS can be slow and frustrating when it comes down to diagnosing ADHD. Some adults cannot wait that long to seek out private providers to assess their health. This could save you time and frustration, but it is important to remember that it is not a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.


A professional who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD can provide an extensive evaluation than a psychiatrist from the NHS. This could include a physical exam and tests, such as hearing and vision. The assessment may also include checklists and questionnaires. The person who conducts the test will also inquire about your family history and social and medical history in addition to asking about your symptoms. They could also employ the standard ADHD rating scales, and may ask your teachers or caregivers to give you a score.

When assessing adult ADHD the healthcare professional will look for five or more signs that have been present for at least six months and are severe enough to interfere in the home or in the workplace. They will also look to determine whether these symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. Depression and anxiety, for instance can trigger signs similar to those seen in ADHD. They will also review your work and social life background to rule out issues such as financial difficulties, the history of abuse and drug or alcohol misuse.

During your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare professional if you don't fit the criteria for ADHD. They will explain their reasoning and you may request a second assessment if you are not satisfied with their decision.

If you are diagnosed of ADHD privately may choose to discuss it with their GP. The GP can then refer the person back to share management via the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD are able to access medication in this way. However, adhd diagnosis uk adults are often hesitant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they do not specialise in the disorder and because it is expensive.

What happens if I don't agree with my diagnosis?

It is important to remember that your doctor must be empathetic and respectful of your feelings and concerns. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD can cause major problems for families and individuals. If your doctor isn't satisfied with the diagnosis, they may be able suggest other treatment options that are more suitable for you.

If how to get an adult adhd diagnosis decides that you don't meet the criteria needed to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, they will explain why. You may not have provided enough information about your struggles or they might believe that another condition better explains your symptoms (traits). If you're unhappy with the outcome, you can seek another opinion from another clinician or go through the NHS complaints process.

It is important to be aware that your doctor might find the process of assessing challenging, whether you opt for private or NHS care. This isn't because of the patients involved, but rather due to the fact that NHS services are stretched to the limit.

GPs are trying to navigate the complicated process of diagnosing ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence as a whole). They must ensure they provide a reliable, fair and safe service and that they meet the GMC's requirements for sharing care prescribing.

Unfortunately, Panorama's expose has revealed that some private clinics are using short cut diagnostic methods and this could put people at risk. This is a national scourge and a compelling reason to consider alternative options.

It is important to remember that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it difficult for some people to receive an assessment. This is especially true if they are of minority ethnicity or born female or have other social and health situations that could influence how medical professionals assess the symptoms they have.

If you're struggling with untreated ADHD symptoms and feel that your life is negatively impacted, we're here to assist. Our doctors have experience diagnosing ADHD and can provide assistance and treatment for your difficulties. You can request an appointment online or give us a an email to find out how we might be able to assist.

What happens If you don't want me take my medication?

If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but do not want to take medication, it's possible to be diagnosed without a prescription. You can receive an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You can ask your GP to refer you to one of the centers for specialists in England or go through the "Right to Choose" pathway which is faster.

Your appointment will include a validated assessment as well as a medical interview and an online questionnaire. how to get an adult adhd diagnosis will help your physician to understand how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. The clinician will also consider your personal experiences as well as your family history. It is essential that you provide accurate and truthful responses.

If the clinician finds that you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD the doctor will be able to provide you with an assessment. You will be asked whether you are interested in discussing the possibility of taking a medication. Before deciding it is crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of taking a medication. This is because the effects of medication can be long-term and may be harmful if taken in a proper manner.

When you choose to take medication, your psychiatrist will provide you with a plan and a prescription. Based on the severity of your symptoms and the length of time you have been suffering from them, it could be recommended that you take ADHD medication for an extended period of time. It is essential to remember that there are other methods that are not pharmacological to treat ADHD symptoms. These include diet, exercise, and cognitive behavior therapy.

The BBC Panorama "expose" of private clinics that treat ADHD has caused controversy, particularly because it suggests people are being misdiagnosed as the result of insufficient clinical assessments. We're hesitant to claim that this doesn't happen because we are inexact and psychiatry is only a flimsy science. If you are experiencing ADHD symptoms but are frustrated by the NHS waiting times, it may be beneficial to pay for an assessment.